1970 And Earlier Adjustments
1971 To 1978 Adjustments

CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT FOR SPORTSTERS**
(1979 - Early 1984)


General

Periodic adjustment of the clutch and oiling of the clutch control cable is required every 2500 miles to compensate for lining wear. The need for attention to the clutch and controls will also be Indicated by the clutch slipping under load, or dragging In released position. In any case, the first thing to be checked is the adjustment of the clutch control.

Adjusting Clutch Release Mechanism
(Figure 6-5)



1. Loosen clutch cable adjuster locknut (13) and turn adjuster (15) inward until there is a large amount of free play at hand lever on handlebar.
2. Remove access plug (1) from primary chain cover using ACCESS PLUG REMOVAL TOOL.
3. Loosen adjusting screw locknut (3) using CLUTCH ADJUSTING NUT WRENCH, and turn screw (5) inward until it becomes harder to turn (starts to release the clutch) and continue turning (2 more turns) to be sure clutch is disengaged.
4. Adjust all free play out of clutch cable by turning adjuster (15) outward. Do not put any tension on cable. With all slack in cable eliminated (no play at hand lever) tighten the coil adjuster locknut (13). This is the correct cable adjustment.
5. The clutch release adjustment should then be made with the clutch adjusting screw as follows. Back off the adjusting screw (5) until the clutch is engaged (screw turns easier), then, turn screw inward until the point where free play of adjusting screw has just been eliminated. From this point, turn the adjusting screw outward 1/8 to 1/4 turn to establish correct free play, and tighten locknut (3) while holding screw (5) stationary.
6. See Figure 6-6. Check free play at clutch handlever. There should be 1/16 in. free play between handle and bracket. If incorrect, readjust sleeve (15, Figure 6-5) and tighten locknut (13).

NOTE
If the clutch continues to slip under load or drag in released position, clutch springs may need adjusting or release mechanism may not be operating.


Adjusting Clutch Spring Tension
(Figure 6-7)


Clutch spring tension is determined by the length of six stud spacers. To correct clutch slippage caused by worn clutch drive plate linings, a set of shorter than standard spacers can be installed.
Under no circumstances should clearance between releasing disc and outer drive plate be allowed to go under minimum 1/8 in. dimension shown. All spacers should be equal in length.



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**Copyright © 1970,1973,1985 Harley Davidson, Inc.